How To Manage Dermatomyositis Effectively

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are medications that reduce inflammation, redness, and itching. One of the most popular corticosteroids used for patients with dermatomyositis is prednisone. This medication can control symptoms quickly and effectively. However, patients using prednisone or similar medications should remain vigilant for potential side effects, which include an increased risk of infection, sore throat, fever, frequent urination, increased thirst, and blurry vision. Some patients may experience rare side effects such as mood swings, depression, confusion, and hives. Patients who take corticosteroids for a long time may gain weight, and they may have indigestion. To reduce the side effects of these medications, patients are sometimes given with other medicines called corticosteroid-sparing agents, which allow patients to take a lower steroid dose. For patients with dermatomyositis, methotrexate and azathioprine are commonly prescribed corticosteroid-sparing agents.

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